The Best Espresso Martinis Around Atlanta
You could totally argue that the sleek and sophisticated espresso martini is actually just the grown-up version of a Vodka + Red Bull. With its perfect blend of booze and caffeine, this classic cocktail has seen a resurgence in popularity and has become the go-to for those nights when you need an extra kick to keep the party alive. Discover the best ones in town below, listed alphabetically below by restaurant.
Editors Note: This article was originally published on February 14, 2024 and last updated on November 15, 2024. Please refer to restaurant websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
1. Burle’s Bar’s Espresso Martini
505 N Angier Ave NE Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30308
This elegant lounge on the Beltline, right above the Victorian Atlanta plant shop, is a relaxed green oasis that’s the perfect place to enjoy a great cocktail or a shot and beer with friends. Bar director Andrew Selvagn was somewhat bullied into making one at the bequest of customers repeatedly trying to order one despite it not being listed on the menu, but eventually, he acquiesced and sought to make the best damn espresso martini that there is! This one uses a delicious homemade cold brew in lieu of espresso. A coconut fat washed tequila makes this drink a little more creamy and delicious than other takes. Microplaned nutmeg over the top adds a fragrant touch.
2. Chops Lobster Bar’s Espresso Martini
70 West Paces Ferry Rd Atlanta, GA 30305
Many great restaurants come and go in Atlanta, but Chops continues to delight the well-heeled Buckhead crowd with its steakhouse favorites and luxurious digs. An espresso flavored vodka, Kahlua, and a shot of brewed espresso makes for an extra pleasing and extra espresso-y take on an espresso martini.
3. JoJo’s Beloved 9 to 5
1197 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
The retro JoJo’s Beloved is without a doubt, one of the coolest cocktail bars in Atlanta. The 9 to 5 on JoJo’s Beloved’s menu is actually a combo of the classic Black Russian and Espresso Martini cocktails. Coconut rum and blackstrap molasses add a tropical twist!
4. Lazy Betty’s Sleepless in Seattle
1530 DeKalb Ave NE ste f, Atlanta, GA 30307
This Michelin starred restaurant in Atlanta has an excellent beverage program to match helmed by beverage director Conrad Helms. A coffee mix and mezcal unexpectedly forms the base of Lazy Betty’s espresso martini. “Espresso and coffee differ majorly in flavor through the fact that espresso is predominantly smoky or roasted, and coffee has a more cooked and mellow profile. To supplement that smoky, roasted element into the cocktail that would normally be vacant with the use of coffee concentrate instead of espresso, we rely on the inherently smoky profile of mezcal to shine through,” shares Helms. “We infuse raw vanilla into the mezcal to soften it and assist the marriage of flavors, and what we are left with is a muted smokiness in our build.”
5. Lingering Shade Social Club’s Louisiana
660 Irwin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Another one of our favorite cocktail bars is Lingering Shade on the Beltline. They have a cozy interior along with a front and back patio which we loveee in the summertime. This is the perfect spot to grab pre or post dinner drinks with your friends. Their espresso martini is called Louisiana and is made with Vanilla Vodka, Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur, Kahlua, and maybe our favorite part, the coffee ice cube. These are dangerously delicious!
6. The James Room’s Espresso en Noir
661 Auburn Ave NE STE 280, Atlanta, GA 30312
The most popular cocktail right now at the Beltline‘s the James Room is the espresso martini. Served in a matte black coupe, when one person orders one, it tends to start a wave since it’s always eye-catching! A mix of Ketel One Vodka, amaro, and espresso make for a delicious and simple take.
7. The Third Door’s Espresso Martini
131 Church St, Marietta, GA 30060
The Third Door’s bar manager Jona Ruiz puts his spin on the espresso martini by incorporating sherry and chicory liqueur. Fee Brothers Foaming Bitters make for a frothy head, and a dash of lemon bitters add just a touch of acidity.
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8. Vesper’s Espresso Martini
The secret to Vesper’s espresso martini is great, hot espresso. Enjoy yourself a ‘tini or two at this Glenwood Park spot. Be sure to also try the Vesper while you’re there, their namesake drink!
